Trance facts for kids
A trance is a special state of mind. When someone is in a trance, they are awake and conscious, but they might not be fully aware of what is happening around them. It's like their mind is focused on something else, or drifting away.
The word trance is often connected to things like hypnosis, meditation, and even some types of religion. It's seen as a different way of experiencing the world, sometimes called an "altered state of consciousness". People have tried for a long time to understand exactly what a trance is.
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What is a Trance State?
A trance is a state where your mind is very focused or very relaxed. You are not asleep, but your attention is pulled away from your immediate surroundings. It can feel like you are in your own world for a little while.
Examples of Trance
There are many everyday examples of what a trance can feel like.
Hypnosis
One clear example is when a person is hypnotized. They are in a trance. They are awake and can respond to the hypnotist. However, they seem to block out other thoughts and information around them. Their mind is very focused on what the hypnotist is saying.
Daydreaming
Another common example is daydreaming. This is when your mind drifts off into private thoughts and imaginary worlds. Everyone daydreams! Young children often daydream a lot and have very vivid imaginary fantasies. This is a completely normal part of growing up. When your mind temporarily separates from your surroundings like this, it's sometimes called "dissociation" by psychologists. Research shows that your brain is still very active when you daydream.
Trance in Religion
Trance states are also seen in many religions around the world. For example, in some African religions, like those of the Yoruba, people might dance for many hours. They dance to the rhythm of music and songs. During these dances, some people might enter a trance. They might act as if they are connected to spirits. Feelings of "spiritual ecstasy" are also known in many forms of Christian worship. This is a key part of religious practices called "mysticism."
Related Topics
See also
In Spanish: Trance para niños
